Every Voice, Every Vote

Every Voice, Every Vote: Your Guide To WURD’s Coverage of the 2023 Philadelphia Elections

With 10 contenders for the Democratic nomination for Philadelphia’s mayor and many more for city council, this primary election season is one of the busiest in recent years. Philadelphia faces many severe issues – school safety, gun violence, economic inequality, poverty, gentrification, lagging public services, and more.

The conversations taking place about the city’s future are being initiated – and documented – as part of the Every Voice, Every Vote collaborative effort spearheaded by the Lenfest Institute for Journalism. Lead support of the project is provided by the William Penn Foundation with additional funding from The Lenfest Institute, Peter and Judy Leone, the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, Harriet and Larry Weiss, and the Wyncote Foundation, among others. 

“Every Voice, Every Vote is one of Philadelphia’s most significant philanthropic investments ever in local journalism and civic engagement. Our work is focused on catalyzing the citizens of Philadelphia, from every neighborhood and community, to lift their voices and determine their own future,” said Lenfest Institute Head of Philadelphia Programs Shawn Mooring, who is leading Every Voice, Every Vote.

As part of the project, WURD Radio is creating opportunities for conversations across the city of Philadelphia, both on-air, online, and at events and forums. Through these activities, WURD Radio is ensuring that Philadelphia’s Black community has access to the information they need to make an informed decision. 

“The Black vote is often taken for granted, and in 2023 WURD is determined to avoid this all too common occurrence,” said Sara M. Lomax, President and CEO of WURD Radio. “The support from the Lenfest Institute that is going to media outlets and community organizations across the city is making it possible for our voices to be heard, loud and clear.”

WURD Radio is hosting special caller segments to give listeners a chance to ask questions of the mayoral candidates – and then reporting back with the answers. WURD has broadcasted live from candidate forums and interviewed mayoral candidates on air. In May, WURD will be hosting a forum just one week before the primary election focusing on inclusive growth in Philadelphia. Every Voice, Every Vote coverage will continue throughout 2023 leading up to the November election. 

Check this page often for curated and original coverage of the city’s election and more from WURD and the partners in the Every Voice, Every Vote coalition. To learn more about the project and view a full list of supporters, visit www.everyvoice-everyvote.org. Editorial content is created independently of the project’s donors.